A Merseyside Police officer whose wife won a legal battle to turn off his life support has passed away peacefully.
Paul Briggs suffered brain damage after he was knocked off his motorbike en route to work and was in a vegetative state for the best part of 18 months.
In December, the 43-year-old’s wife Lindsey was granted permission by the Court of Protection to end her husband’s life despite objection from doctors.
It had been argued by medics at The Walton Centre that Mr Briggs could have made a recovery from his ongoing condition despite sustaining severe injuries.
Following the ruling, the father-of-one was moved to a hospice near his Wirral home, where care experts were gradually able to withdraw his life support.
A statement from Lyndsey Briggs, who fought a year-long case to allow her husband the right to die, confirmed the former PC’s death.
She said: “We’re devastated he has gone and are grieving for Paul but we are also relieved for him.
“We are so, so sad to have lost him but know that he is finally free and at peace.”
Chelsea Rowe was handed a 12-month prison sentence last July after being found guilty of causing the accident which led to Mr Briggs’ incapacitation.
Andy Cooke, Merseyside Police’s Chief Constable, led the tributes to the former Gulf War veteran prior to joining the force.
He said: “Paul was a young man and his death is a tragedy.
“But I know that Lindsey, his daughter Ella, and his family, will find some comfort in knowing that Paul is now at peace and his wishes have been honoured.
“Paul dedicated his career to protecting the public and the force is flying the flag at half mast in his honour. our thoughts and condolences are with Lindsey, Ella, his family, friends and colleagues.”